Tributes

Roy Gaskill passed away peacefully on the morning of Monday, October 24 in his home surrounded by his family. He was born in Lakewood New Jersey, on April 21, 1934 and grew up in Pine Level, North Carolina. Graduating Vice President of his class from Pine Level High School in 1953. An excellent student and four-time varsity letter athlete in both basketball and baseball. Following graduation, he enlisted in the Air Force in November of 1953. His career began as a Radio Operator in the B50 strategic bomber at Wheelus Air Force Base in Libya. He then transitioned in base level military personnel positions at various bases throughout the world, including Pope, Wheeler, Wurtsmith and Keflavik, AFB. He then went on to serve in military personnel staff positions at Headquarters, Air Training Command, and held two 5-year tours at the HQ Air Force Military Personnel Center (AFMPC). He was awarded innumerable decorations and accolades throughout his career including his final promotion of rank to Chief Master Sargent and being selected for the Air Force 33-year retention program. Roy’s other decorations included AF Meritorious Service Medal with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Commendation Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters, Outstanding USAF Military Personnel Manager of the Year award (1980), NCO Air Force Association Blue Suiter of the Year Award (1981), and Honolulu Chamber of Commerce’s Father of the Year (1967). He retired on April 30th 1984 after 31 years of Active Duty service. Retirement didn’t last too long, as he quickly moved into the role of contractor for HQ AFMPC, Randolph, AFB as Team Chief, Advanced Personnel Data System-II. He then obtained Civil Service appointment as a GS-12 while also becoming a member of the Core Planning Team for the Personnel Concept III Program. He enjoyed this for 14 years until retiring April 27th 2000 following his 66th birthday. Outside of this career though is where Roy found his true passions. He was an active father and grandfather, always finding time to manage softball teams, coach little league baseball, be a Cub Scout Master, Boy Scout leader and Chairman of the Randolph Ro-Hawk Booster Club. He was also an avid Texas Longhorns fan (Hook ‘em!) and a golf enthusiast; picking up the sport after he retired. When not swinging for par, Roy began marshalling for the Canyon Springs Golf Course. Throughout his life, Roy found comfort and strength through his involvement at First Baptist Church of San Antonio. Along with his wife, Sandra, he was member of First Baptist for nearly 30 years and was named a Life Deacon. He also taught the Adult Sunday School for many years and served on numerous committees. Roy is survived by his loving wife Sandra C. Gaskill of 60 years and their three children Stephen Gaskill, Pam and Dan McLain, and Jeff and Lisa Gaskill. He is also survived by his grandchildren Philip and Taylor McLain, Danielle McLain, Lauren Gaskill, Haley Gaskill; and sister Brenda F. Johnson of Raleigh, NC. The family would like to acknowledge with great appreciation the love and care provided by the numerous Doctors, Nurses and staff at SAMMC; especially Dr. Michael Osswald, Dr. Gadiel Alvarado, and Peggy Smith, clinical research nurse. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The First Baptist Church of San Antonio Television Ministry. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Tributes

Roy Parker Gaskill

April 21, 1934 - October 24, 2016